Meanwhile, the Independent Venezuelan American Citizens group planned protests at federal buildings in New Orleans and Baton Rouge to criticize Landrieu's position.

A Democrat seeking her fourth term, Landrieu says she supports sanctions. But she says Rubio's bill could threaten 2,000 jobs at a major Citgo oil refinery in Louisiana, which imports oil from Venezuela.

Republicans hope the criticism strikes another blow against Landrieu, who is targeted by the GOP to try to retake control of the Senate.